ACCA and AACSB Collaborate to Advance Education in Accounting and Finance
In a significant move for the field of accounting and finance education, the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) have forged a strategic partnership. This collaboration was formalized with a three-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on October 17, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in redefining business education.
The partnership stems from a shared commitment to enhance and innovate in the realms of accounting and finance education. Leaders from both organizations emphasize their dedication to exploring interlinked areas of interest such as research into the future of work, the employability of graduates, and developing career pathways. They will also evaluate the broader social impacts of educational frameworks in these fields.
Helen Brand, the chief executive of ACCA, articulated the importance of this collaboration, stating, "The landscape of accountancy is evolving rapidly. Accountants are now playing crucial roles in driving sustainability, addressing social value, and navigating new ethical challenges. This partnership is vital in preparing future generations for both the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead."
AACSB’s president and CEO, Lily Bi, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that business education is currently undergoing transformative changes. "By partnering with ACCA, we aim to strengthen the connection between academic learning and the realities of the business environment, thereby ensuring that students develop the necessary skills and agile mindset to thrive in an ever-changing profession," she stated.
This alliance will not only focus on immediate educational initiatives but also delve into the future influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on learning experiences across universities. The predictive potential of AI in developing not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills suited for the evolving job market will be a critical area of examination.
The collaboration also plans to compile and disseminate research findings that emerge from their joint efforts, ensuring that insights regarding the future of accountancy education are widely accessible. By doing so, both ACCA and AACSB will reinforce their commitment to empowering educational institutions and stakeholders within the business landscape.
Jillian Couse, head of ACCA North America, stated, "This partnership paves the way for enhanced support of accountancy education across the U.S. and Canada. We look forward to the meaningful collaborations that this MOU will foster in the coming years."
About ACCA
ACCA, positioned as the only truly global professional accountancy body, has been breaking barriers in the profession since its inception in 1904. With over 257,900 members and more than 530,100 prospective members across 180 countries, ACCA is at the forefront of redefining accountancy. They not only provide recognized qualifications but also support continuous learning and insight generation.
Their ethos of enabling individuals to integrate business acumen and ethical judgment places them in prime position to lead the accountancy profession in a rapidly changing world. They actively engage with policymakers, educators, and other professional bodies to cultivate a practice focused on sustainability and value creation.
About AACSB International
Established in 1916, AACSB is recognized as the world’s largest business education association, encompassing 2,000 institutional members and over 1,000 accredited schools. By connecting business schools, industry leaders, and lifelong learners, AACSB has positioned itself as a champion of high-quality education and impactful global leadership.
Their mission underscores a commitment to elevating the standards and relevance of business schools worldwide. As AACSB and ACCA come together, the partnership promises to foster a future filled with educated leaders prepared to meet the demands of the business world.
In conclusion, the combined efforts of ACCA and AACSB exemplify a united front in enhancing the vitality and applicability of accounting and finance education, ensuring it remains aligned with the emerging trends and needs of the global market. This collaborative framework reinforces their shared vision to not only adapt but to lead the new era of accountancy education.